He worked in construction doing minor remodels with his wife for 15 years. After 15 more years he injured a shoulder and was on L&I for more than three years. He went back to school and now makes parts for medical implants.

A GoFundMe page was started to help with the bills. He noticed that most of the donors are local.

He said he and his wife are independent, so it’s hard to ask for help.

“For our livelihood we rely on family, friends and strangers,” he said, adding if people can’t do that, “Send us prayers, they’re always accepted.”

He said his job will take him back, but they understand, “I want to be there to take care of her.”